All jewelry has been enlarged to show beauty of detail. Gemstones may have been treated or enhanced by heating or irradiation. Emeralds and opals may be filled with colorless synthetic resins or oils. Gemstones require special care in jewelry repair or cleaning.

Videos

Gemstones

The Four Cs

Opal

The name opal derives from the Greek Opallos, meaning "to see a change (of color)." Opals range in color from milky white to black with flashes of yellow, orange, green, red, and blue. An opal's beauty is the product of contrast between its color play and its background. Opal is a formation of non-crystalline silica gel that seeped into crevices in the sedimentary strata. Through time and nature's heating and molding processes, the gel hardens into the form of opals. The opal is composed of particles closely packed in spherical arrangements. When packed together in a regular pattern, a three-dimensional array of spaces is created that gives opal its radiance.

Caring for your opal jewelry is a simple process that will ensure that your gemstone maintains its beautiful sparkle. The best way to keep your gem clean is to bring it to your local Helzberg Diamonds store for a complimentary cleaning and inspection. At home, you can brighten your opal jewelry by gentling wiping the gemstone with a jewelry polishing cloth and warm water.